Sayif’s martial arts training began in his father’s dojo at the age of three.
He won two state titles in the process of earning his black belt in judo, then went on to study Shorin-Ryu karate and won four national titles. He received his Black Belt in 1997 from Sensei Saud at the USKK Nationals.

Shortly after, Sayif focused his attention on academics and bodybuilding. He graduated with honors from Indiana University-Bloomington with a degree in Political Science, then attended law school at Indiana University - Indianapolis. During this time, Sayif also won several NPC bodybuilding competitions and was featured in multiple magazines.

Ultimately, Sayif’s passion for the martial arts led him to study with world-class trainer Greg Jackson in Albuquerque, NM from 2006-2009. While there, Sayif also closely studied wrestling with former NCAA Division 1 champion and UFC vet Mike Van Arsdale & Renowned striking Coach Mike Winklejohn; being cornered by all of these coaches at one point or another while competing.

Some of Sayif’s submission grappling accomplishments include winning Best of the West and American Championships tournaments and earning a Grappler’s Quest silver medal.

Undefeated as an amateur his competitive career culminated with an undefeated professional record of 3-0 in MMA but was cut short due to injury.

Sensei Meeting with Sayif in Dallas 2014

Now the Head MMA Coach at Octagon MMA in Dallas, TX, Sayif is currently working with over 20 fighters from such elite promotions as Legacy FC, UFC and Bellator. He continually brings some of the world’s best athletes and trainers to Texas, including notables Greg Jackson, former UFC champion Rashad Evans and former Strikeforce champion Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal among many others.

Coach Saud’s team compiled a 40-5 record in 2011 and he was recognized as TXMMA’s “People’s Choice” for Coach of the year. His team has continued on strong with fighters in the UFC, Bellator and over a dozen active fighters on the Legacy FC roster (more than any other current team) including bantamweight champion Matt Hobar.